A 29-year-old man is behind bars in Tuscaloosa County following an early-morning break-in and assault at his ex-girlfriend’s home, authorities said Friday.

Sheriff’s deputies responded about 3:30 a.m. Friday to a residence in the 11000 block of Greymont Boulevard in Moundville.

The residence was occupied by the female homeowner, her boyfriend and two children under the age of 12, said Tuscaloosa Violent Crimes Unit Capt. Jack Kennedy.

Investigators determined the woman’s ex-boyfriend, 29-year-old Nicholas Lynch, had forced his way into the home and assaulted those inside.

The male victim was stabbed several times. His wounds aren’t life-threatening.

Kennedy said both children also were assaulted and sustained minor injuries.

The two adult victims fled the home, without the children.

Once on the scene, deputies found both children hiding in different parts of the home.

Lynch had already left the scene.

The family’s dog was found slain.

Authorities found Lynch’s vehicle a short distance away. Kennedy said he apparently parked his vehicle there and then walked the rest of the way to his ex-girlfriend’s home.

A perimeter was established. Authorities used tracking dogs and a drone to search for Lynch.

The drone located Lynch hiding in a wooded area. He was taken into custody by deputies and investigators.

Lynch is charged with first-degree burglary, attempted murder, aggravated animal cruelty and two counts of third-degree assault.

He is being held in the Tuscaloosa County Jail.